Visitor Information
- Famous For: Religion, History, Nature, Photography
- Entry Fee: No fee is required.
- Visiting Time: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily
- Visiting Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Dharamshala, as the name suggests, is a religious abode for the needy. These religious abodes have grown up from the origin of different religions of the worlds and have guided the people of this serene hill station since time immemorial. Thus, along with the presence of many age-old Hindu temples and churches, a remarkable co-existence of the Buddhist monasteries is observed. One such place of utmost importance is the Gyuto Monastery in Dharamshala. Known all over the world for the heart-touching history associated with it, this monastery has always depicted how tantrism, a practice of the ancient black magic, can be used for the well-being of the people. Thus, as a pilgrimage site for the followers of Buddhism and as a site igniting many curiosities, the Gyuto Monastery is visited by people from all over the world.
Traveller Tips
- Do not carry cigarettes, alcohol or non-vegetarian food sneakily.
- Wear warm clothes as it is quite cold up there.
- Keep your phone or your tablet on silent mode before entering through the main gate to this monastery.
Things to Do There
- Seek his blessings of Sakhyamuni Buddha.
- Take photographs of the magnificent monastery and the panoramic view of the surroundings.
- Go for a trek around the monastery and enjoy the peaceful ambience in the lap of nature.
Availability of Guides
Guides are usually not allowed inside the monastery. However, you can also refer to the sign boards and the leaflets so that you get a clear view and understanding of this sacred monastery.
Best Time to Visit
The Gyuto Monastery is open all the year round. However, it is recommended that you try to visit the Gyuto Mostery during the festival of Buddha Purnima because during that festival, the monastery is at its peak level of gorgeous decoration. Moreover, the delicious Tibetan food and the colourful cultural show too is an attraction at that time.
How to Reach the Place
The Masroor Rock Cut Temple is located at a distance of 43 km from Dharamshala. You can hire a car or a shared taxi to reach this ancient temple.
Interesting Facts About the Gyuto Monastery
- The Gyuto Monastery had originated in Tibet in the 15th Century and was reestablished in India in the 20th Century after the Chinese invasion in Tibet.
- This monastery is famous all over the world for the practice of tantric meditation that includes practices such as Guhyasamaja, Chakrasamvara and Yamantaka.
- A beautiful statue of the Sakhyamuni Buddha exists on the premises of this temple that glistens and spreads a rich golden hue around when the sun shines upon it.
- This temple complex is located on a hilltop that offers a spectacular view of the Dhauladhar Ranges and the Beas River.
Nearby Attractions
- Kangra Valley
- Dal Lake
- Kareri Lake
- John in the Wilderness Church
- Chintpurni
- Tibet Museum
- H H Dalai Lama’s Main Temple
- State Museum of Dharamshala
- Tsuglagkhang Complex
- Bhagsu Nag Temple
- Masroor Rock Cut Temple
Nearby Restaurants
- Tibet Kitchen
- Nick’s Italian Kitchen
- Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen
- Illiterati
- Lobsang Four Season Café
- Snow Lion’s Restaurant
- Morgan’s Place
- Lung Ta
- Trek and Dine
The Gyuto Monastery has got a powerful religious and a tragic historical significance. Barring these, the practice of tantrism is the greatest source of attraction of this monastery. This monastery has been spreading the ancient knowledge of black magic in such a way among the growing monks that it is utilized only to help the common folk out at the time of distress. Thus, a visit to this enchanting monastery is a must for all.
